Springing your way to
childcare

They will be able to learn more about Springboard Sunderland in Pallion at the event, which is hosted by staff who started their childcare careers as apprentices with the training company.

Jane Waggott and Gemma Dunn have risen through the ranks at Springboard to the positions of nursery deputy manager and nursery nurse, respectively.

Jane said: “Springboard gave me the opportunity to get hands-on experience alongside studying.

“I feel it is an ideal environment for people who are unsure of their future path in life.

“The mentors here at Springboard provided me with great support and knowledge and it is such a rewarding and satisfying experience to provide a great environment for the early-years development of children.”

Jane, who has been working at the nursery since January, and Gemma likewise since 2013, both completed their NVQ Level 3 in Childcare while attending Springboard.

Gemma added: “Springboard gave me the best possible start of my career as it gave me the opportunity to secure a job as soon as I completed my studies.

“As we have worked together as such a close team for a long time, everyone respects and values each other and this produces a really warm and safe environment for the children.

“Also, now I’m working in the nursery and teaching new apprentices, it’s a great opportunity for me to share my experiences and provide them with the same excellent support and advice I received.”

Denise Wilson, Trust Secretary of Springboard Sunderland Trust, added “The combination of adult and child learning is crucial in building resilience in families and creates a sense of well-being and better social interactions.

“Our open week gives people the opportunity to meet the staff, have a tour and find out how we plan learning for each individual child and about family learning.”

Springboard caters primarily for local pre-school children aged 1-5 years. In the past year, the nursery received a “good” report from an unannounced OFSTED inspection.

l Springboard Sunderland nursery open week will start on Monday and will be open every day from 10am to 11.30am, and 1.30 to 3pm until Friday.

For more information on the open week visit the website www.springboard-ne.org.uk.